Due Diligence Fund (DDF) 5th Call: How to Secure Up to €250,000 for Sustainable Agricultural Projects in 2026

​Are you looking for sustainable agriculture grants to scale your agribusiness or farming partnership? The Due Diligence Fund (DDF) has officially launched its 5th Call for Proposals, offering a unique opportunity for organizations to secure up to €250,000 in funding. Commissioned by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and implemented by GIZ, this fund is designed to promote human rights and environmental due diligence (HREDD) across global agricultural supply chains.

​Securing international funding like the DDF requires a focus on innovation and social impact, particularly in areas like deforestation-free supply chains, climate smart agriculture, and gender equality. This 5th round is especially significant as it marks the International Year of the Woman Farmer, prioritizing projects that empower women in the primary production sector. Whether you are a private company or a non-profit, this grant provides the financial backing and global networking needed to transform local farming into a resilient, export-ready enterprise.

​Key Grant Details & Requirements:

• ​Funding Amount: Up to €250,000 per project.
• ​Partnership Model: Applications must come from partnerships involving at least one EU/UK-based company and one company in a DAC-listed country (like Nigeria) or a non-profit organization.
• ​Focus Areas: Projects must target primary production and address risks like biodiversity loss, living wages, and digital traceability.
• ​Deadline: All short proposals must be submitted by June 15, 2026, 23:59 CEST.

​How to Apply:

To begin your journey, you must download the official "Short Proposal" templates from the SASI website. The process involves a two-stage competition: first, a concept note (Short Proposal), followed by a detailed project plan (Long Proposal) for those who are shortlisted. This is an excellent chance for Nigerian agropreneurs to partner with European off-takers and NGOs to improve soil management and crop value chains while meeting international standards like the EUDR (EU Deforestation Regulation).

​Final Thought for Agropreneurs:

The landscape of global agriculture is shifting toward transparency and sustainability. By tapping into opportunities like the Due Diligence Fund, you aren’t just getting a grant; you are future-proofing your business against global regulatory changes while improving the lives of local smallholder farmers. Don't wait until the last minute—start building your partnerships and drafting your concept note today to ensure your agricultural project stands out in this prestigious global call.

​Source: Sustainable Supply Chains Initiative (SASI)